Do 2 ‘mismatched’ jobs in 1 year label me a job hopper?

Question: “I recently lost a job after six months because management said I was a ‘mismatch.’ Although I found another job immediately, it is not something I want to do long-term. I like my supervisor and co-workers, but I don’t enjoy the work. I would like to continue looking for a more professional position, but I don’t want to be viewed as a job hopper. I also feel guilty and disloyal, since my new employer hired me when I was jobless. Can you help me sort this out? —Unhappy

Answer: Your feelings of guilt are guiding you towards the ethical choice. Hiring and training someone is costly, so your employer deserves a chance to recoup that investment. If you ditch this job now, you will be treating your new boss just like the old one treated you.

This is also a practical decision, because two very brief jobs will not look good on your resume. Try to stay with this employer for at least a year and use that time to carefully study the job market and define your career goals. You need to be sure that your next position is a keeper.

Tomorrow's Training:

Your employee handbook can be an invaluable organizational tool … or an employment lawsuit waiting to happen. And in recent years, Congress and state legislatures have been busy enacting laws that directly affect your employee handbook. If you haven't kept up, you could find yourself in court....Click here to find out more.